"People who leave Washington do so by way of the box... ballet or coffin"

This quote by Claiborne Pell is a funny means of stating that individuals who leave Washington, D.C. either do so in an effective manner, such as a ballet professional dancer, or in a less effective way, such as a coffin. It indicates that those who succeed in Washington, D.C. will certainly have the ability to leave in a graceful and triumphant method, while those who are not successful will certainly be compelled to leave in a much less preferable means. The quote is a suggestion that success in Washington, D.C. is not guaranteed which one need to strive to attain their objectives. It additionally acts as an advising to those that are taking into consideration entering the political field, as it implies that failing is a genuine possibility. Ultimately, the quote is a tip that success in Washington, D.C. is difficult which one should be prepared to strive and take dangers in order to accomplish their objectives.